Gemotions

I felt leaden, like I was moving through molasses. The simplest tasks felt monumental. I sat in the living room, listening to the monotonous hum of the refrigerator.

My partner, Alex, had been secretive lately, always whispering on the phone. I hadn’t confronted her yet. I didn't know if I could. The thought of conflict exhausted me before it even began.

One afternoon, I was washing dishes and I heard her in the other room. Her voice was giddy and I heard laughter. I stood motionless, dish soap dripping down my hands.